Build a Proof of Concept or prototype
Be investor ready
Embarking on an entrepreneurial journey requires more than just a brilliant idea—it demands a tangible proof of concept prototype to capture the attention of your potential investors and other stakeholders.
At CRINNAC, we understand the pivotal role a proof of concept prototype plays in transforming your vision into a compelling reality. Different level prototypes serve as a visual testament to the feasibility and potential of your product or idea, providing a concrete demonstration that resonates with potential backers.
Investors are inherently risk-averse, and a well-executed prototype becomes a persuasive tool to mitigate that risk. A well-crafted proof of concept prototype positions you as a prepared and serious entrepreneur, instilling confidence and paving the way for successful collaborations.
What type of prototype do you need?
Various types of prototypes are typically needed, depending on the project's development stage and the primary purpose of prototyping. Here are some common types of prototypes for hardware projects:
​
-
Proof of Concept (PoC) Prototype:
-
Purpose: To demonstrate the feasibility of the core concept or technology.
-
Characteristics: Basic functionality is showcased, focusing on proving that the fundamental idea is viable.
-
-
Form Study (Visual) Prototype:
-
Purpose: Evaluating the physical form and aesthetics of the product.
-
Characteristics: Focus on size, shape, and ergonomics without functional elements.
-
-
Functional Prototype:
-
Purpose: Demonstrating the working functionality of the product.
-
Characteristics: Includes both the physical appearance and core functionality, allowing for testing and user feedback.
-
-
Alpha Prototype:
-
Purpose: Refining and testing the initial version of the product.
-
Characteristics: Represents the first fully functional version, but may still have some flaws.
-
-
Beta Prototype:
-
Purpose: Identifying and fixing issues before mass production.
-
Characteristics: Close to the final product but may undergo further tweaks based on user feedback.
-
-
Production Prototype:
-
Purpose: Identical to the final product intended for mass production.
-
Characteristics: Represents the product that will be manufactured and sold to customers.
-
Choosing the right type of prototype depends on the specific goals of the development stage. Early stages may prioritise proving concepts and functionality, while later stages focus on refining the design and preparing for production.
What is the difference?
-
Proof of Concept (PoC)
-
Prototype
-
Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
-
Proof of Concept (PoC):
-
Purpose: To demonstrate the feasibility of a specific idea or technology.
-
Characteristics: A PoC is a preliminary stage that focuses on proving that a concept can work in theory. It may involve a basic demonstration or simulation without the full functionality or appearance of the intended product.
-
-
Prototype:
-
Purpose: To create a tangible, early version of a product for testing and validation.
-
Characteristics: Prototypes are more advanced than PoCs and aim to showcase both the form and function of the product. They can vary in fidelity, ranging from simple visual representations to functional models, depending on the stage of development.
-
-
Minimum Viable Product (MVP):
-
Purpose: To release a scaled-down version of the product with minimal features to gather user feedback and validate key assumptions.
-
Characteristics: An MVP is a functional version of the product, typically with enough features to address a specific problem or need. It is released to a limited audience to test its viability and collect valuable insights for further development.
-
​Key Differences:
-
Focus:
-
PoC focuses on proving the viability of a concept or technology.
-
Prototypes focus on creating a tangible representation of the product for testing.
-
MVPs focus on releasing a minimal yet functional version to gather user feedback and validate the market.
-
-
Scope:
-
PoCs are often limited in scope and may not represent the full product.
-
Prototypes showcase the form and function of the intended product.
-
MVPs include a minimal set of features to address a specific problem or need.
-
-
Development Stage:
-
PoCs are typically early-stage concepts to test technical feasibility.
-
Prototypes are developed after a PoC to test the physical or functional aspects.
-
MVPs come after prototypes and aim to validate the product in a real-world setting with users.
-
-
Audience:
-
PoCs are often for internal stakeholders or technical validation.
-
Prototypes may be shared with a broader audience for feedback.
-
MVPs are released to a limited user base to gather market validation.
-
While PoCs demonstrate technical feasibility, prototypes focus on tangible representation and functionality, and MVPs aim to validate the market and gather user feedback with a minimal yet functional version of the product. Each stage plays a crucial role in the iterative process of product development.
Our team collaborates with you to create prototypes that not only impress but also serve as a decisive asset in discussions with investors and other key stakeholders, ensuring that your entrepreneurial journey is met with the attention and backing it deserves.